When you’re buying or refinancing a property, one of the most common questions you’ll have is, “How long does a title search take?” The short answer—usually between a few days to two weeks, depending on the property and the records involved.
But the real answer depends on several moving parts—like where the property is located, how complicated the ownership history is, and whether any title issues pop up along the way. At Trilogy Title Agency, a trusted title company in Ohio, we know how important it is for buyers, sellers, and lenders to understand this process clearly. Let’s break it down step by step so you know exactly what to expect.
What Is a Title Search, and Why Does It Matter?
A title search is the process of examining public records to confirm that the seller has a legal right to sell the property—and that there are no hidden claims or liens that could cause trouble later.
Think of it as a background check for your property. Before you invest thousands (or millions) into real estate, you want to be sure the title is “clean.” This includes checking for:
- Outstanding mortgages or taxes
- Judgments, liens, or unpaid contractor bills
- Easements or right-of-way issues
- Boundary disputes or ownership claims
A reliable title company in Ohio like Trilogy Title Agency ensures all these potential red flags are caught early—saving you from expensive legal headaches later.
How Long Does a Title Search Actually Take?
In most cases, a title search takes between 3 to 10 business days. But that’s a general estimate—let’s look at what can make it shorter or longer:
- Simple residential properties: 3–5 business days
- Older homes or rural properties: 7–10 business days
- Commercial real estate deals: 10–14 business days or more
The more complex the property’s history, the more digging is needed to verify ownership and clear any potential issues.
If you’re on a tight closing schedule, it’s best to contact a title company in Ohio early in your buying process—this gives the team more time to complete a thorough title search without rushing critical details.
What Happens During a Title Search?
Let’s take a look behind the curtain at what title professionals actually do during the process.
- Record Review: Your title agent searches county records, tax documents, and court filings to verify ownership.
- Lien and Judgment Check: They check if anyone has legal claims (like unpaid debts) attached to the property.
- Property Boundary Verification: Surveys or plats may be reviewed to confirm there are no encroachments or boundary issues.
- Title Report Preparation: After the investigation, the title company prepares a report outlining the property’s legal status.
- Title Commitment: Once the title is deemed clear—or any issues are resolved—the title company issues a commitment to insure the title.
This process ensures peace of mind for both buyers and lenders, confirming that the property can be legally transferred without future surprises.
What Factors Affect How Long a Title Search Takes?
Several elements influence how long it takes to complete a title search:
1. Property Type
- Residential Title Services are usually faster because residential properties typically have straightforward ownership histories.
- Commercial Title Services may take longer, especially when dealing with multiple lots, zoning restrictions, or past corporate ownership transfers.
2. County Records Availability
In some Ohio counties, records are digitized and easy to access. In others, records must be pulled manually from courthouse archives, which can delay the process.
3. Title Issues
If there are existing liens, unpaid taxes, or legal disputes, your title company in Ohio will need additional time to resolve them.
4. Holiday or Workload Delays
During peak seasons—like spring and summer homebuying booms—title companies handle a higher volume of orders, which may slightly extend turnaround times.
FAQ-Style Guide: What Buyers and Sellers Often Ask
1. Can a title search be done in one day?
It’s rare but possible for straightforward transactions. For example, if you’re buying a newly built home with no ownership history, the process can be completed within 24–48 hours.
2. What if a title issue is found?
Don’t panic. Most issues—like unpaid taxes or clerical errors—can be fixed before closing. Your title company will work to resolve these with the necessary parties, such as lenders or county offices.
3. Do I need title insurance after a title search?
Yes. Even a thorough search can’t uncover every hidden issue. Title insurance protects you from future claims or errors missed during the initial review.
4. Does refinancing require another title search?
Yes, because lenders need updated assurance that no new liens or ownership changes have occurred since your last transaction. Fortunately, refinances often move faster than purchases.
What’s Included in a Title Search? (Quick Breakdown)
Here’s a simple breakdown of what your title agent looks for during the search:
- Current ownership and deed history
- Liens or judgments against the property
- Unpaid taxes or utility bills
- Easements, restrictions, or encroachments
- Legal descriptions and boundary checks
- Bankruptcy filings or probate issues
- Outstanding mortgages
Each step plays a critical role in protecting your property rights and ensuring a smooth closing experience.
How Title Search Timelines Differ: Residential vs. Commercial
While Residential Title Services and Commercial Title Services both serve the same purpose—to verify ownership—they differ in complexity and timing.
Residential Title Services:
These typically involve single-family homes, condos, or small multi-unit properties. With limited ownership history, they’re often completed within 3–5 business days.
Commercial Title Services:
Commercial searches take longer because they may include multiple parcels, zoning reviews, and past business ownership changes. These can take 10–14 days or more, depending on the property’s background.
At Trilogy Title Agency, our experienced team handles both residential and commercial cases efficiently, ensuring you never face unnecessary delays.
Why Some Title Searches Take Longer Than Expected
Even the best title teams can hit unexpected roadblocks. Here are some common scenarios:
- Old or incomplete public records
- Multiple ownership transfers within short periods
- Estate or probate properties where heirs must be located
- Bank-owned or foreclosed properties requiring additional documentation
- Errors in prior deeds (like misspelled names or missing signatures)
A professional title company in Ohio ensures these issues are flagged early, so they don’t cause last-minute closing delays.
Can You Speed Up the Title Search Process?
Absolutely! Here’s how buyers and sellers can help streamline things:
- Provide complete and accurate property details early.
- Respond quickly to requests for information or signatures.
- Start the title search as soon as the purchase agreement is signed.
- Work with an experienced Title Company in Ohio that knows the local recording systems and regulations.
These small steps can save days—sometimes even a week—off your closing timeline.
What Happens After the Title Search Is Complete?
Once the title search is done, you’ll receive a title commitment outlining any issues or encumbrances found. If the title is clear, you’ll move on to:
- Finalizing your closing documents
- Purchasing title insurance
- Scheduling the closing date
If issues are discovered, your title agent will coordinate resolutions—like lien releases or corrections—so your deal can move forward smoothly.
Why Choose Trilogy Title Agency?
At Trilogy Title Agency, we combine accuracy, speed, and transparency. As a premier title company in Ohio, our mission is to simplify property transactions—whether you’re buying your dream home or managing a commercial investment.
We provide both residential title services and commercial title services backed by years of experience, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of Ohio’s real estate laws. Our team works closely with realtors, lenders, and attorneys to ensure every closing is handled professionally from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
A title search isn’t just a formality—it’s one of the most important steps in protecting your property investment. While most searches take 3 to 10 days, starting early and working with a trusted title company in Ohio like Trilogy Title Agency ensures you get accurate results without unnecessary delays.
Don’t wait until closing day to find out there’s a title issue. Reach out to Trilogy Title Agency today to start your title search and make your next property transaction stress-free.
